Israel Asper, O.C., O.M., Q.C., L.L.D. (1932 – 2003) and Babs Asper (1933 – 2011) believed that philanthropy is a driving force behind positive change in people’s quality of life. For this reason, they formed The Asper Foundation in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada in 1983 to build upon their and the Asper family’s philanthropic objectives.
The Asper Foundation, a Winnipeg-based philanthropic organization, develops major projects and provides general support to the Jewish Community while also supporting the broader community in areas of culture, education, community development, and human rights on a local, national and international scale.
In the recent past, over $150 million has been donated to various charitable causes through The Asper Foundation. This website not only reflects, but celebrates the inspired vision of Israel and Babs Asper and outlines the activities and future plans of The Asper Foundation.
Announcements of Major Initiatives
Twentieth Anniversary of Announcement to Create the Canadian Museum for Human Rights
Today marks the 20th anniversary of Dr. Israel Asper’s April 17, 2003 announcement to establish the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg, Manitoba. For more information, please see our news release and this article from the Winnipeg Free Press.
Retirement of Moe Levy, Executive Director of The Asper Foundation
Please click here to read about the retirement of The Asper Foundation’s Executive Director Moe Levy and his legacy.
Babs Asper Celebrated and Recognized on International Women’s Day
On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate and recognize the life and contributions of Babs Asper, Co-founder of The Asper Foundation, who made significant strides in the fields of community development and the arts in Winnipeg, Canada and Israel. Please click here for more information.
The Asper Foundation Makes Landmark Donation to the Montreal Holocaust Museum
The Asper Foundation has made a landmark $300,000 donation in support of the Montreal Holocaust Museum’s educational initiatives about the history of the Holocaust and its human rights legacy. The donation will allow the MHM to train hundreds of Canadian educators and better equip them to teach about the Holocaust in their classrooms. Please click here, here, and here for more information.
Anita Wortzman Named as President of The Asper Foundation
The Asper Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Anita Wortzman as President. Please click here, here, and here for more information.
